In the world we live in today, it can be so easy to become distracted and overwhelmed by the onslaught of stimulation that we face on a daily basis. Email, text, social platform notifications coupled with the daily responsibilities of life — it can be so easy to lose focus on God and make it harder to hear his voice. 

In today’s passage, we see Jesus demonstrating a behavior that I think we could all use more of, especially right now in our history. “Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”

Do you see that phrase? Solitary place. Something that I think we all don’t get enough of. Think about it. When was the last time that you truly had solitude with no distractions around you? When was the last time you had a moment to catch your breath, renew your soul, and sit in silence and prayer with God? I just checked for myself personally and let’s just say it’s been a long time. 

Nothing is ever stated in the Bible unless it’s important, and since there are numerous passages about the need for solitude and several examples of Jesus going off by himself to pray, I am assuming that this is a behavior we should be modeling in our daily lives. It’s hard to hear God when you are being bombarded by things that take your attention off of him and steal your joy. 

Today, I urge you to fall into God, to take some time away for renewal in the Spirit and just see what you discover. What is God trying to say to you? 

Father, thank you for the freedom you give me to take time away from the busyness of life and rest in your presence. Please show me all the little moments you are granting me today that will allow me to keep my thoughts fixed on you.

Throughout This Day: Ask God to show you the moments of silence and solitude he is offering you as you go from task to task and from place to place.



Tags: Daily Devotional Mark 1
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